When it comes to volunteering, Judith Evnen grew up with excellent examples.
“The value of leadership and community involvement is a legacy from my parents and grandparents,” she said. “My siblings each offer examples of this intention. That is inspiring to me.”
Helping others in the spiritual realm drew Judith Evnen to become a Spiritual Care Volunteer (SCV) at Jewish Family Services (JFS) last year. JFS recognizes Evnen and all of her contributions to the JFS Chaplaincy program by naming her the JFS Volunteer of the Month.
Spiritual Care Volunteers provide spiritual support to those experiencing a medical or health crisis and help fulfill the mitzvah of bikkur holim (visiting the sick). Part of JFS’s Jewish Community Chaplaincy program, SCVs complete several training sessions that include HIPPA regulations and opportunities to shadow another SVC. JFS is currently recruiting compassionate community members to serve as SCVs; you can learn more at www.jfskc.org.
Volunteering with JFS as a SCV was a great connection for Evnen, who moved to Kansas City about 28 years ago. A trained clinical social worker, Evnen initially connected with JFS in Omaha serving as a therapist. In Kansas City, Evnen continued her work as clinical social worker on the Palliative team at Research Medical Center. That experience helped frame her desire to become a JFS SCV.
“I was new to working in the hospital, but I am comfortable there. The conversations and challenges felt important at critical moments in people’s lives,” Evnen said. “Being able to approach those conversations and holding support for whatever came next resonated. I just really liked it and was pleased to find an opportunity to be present in hospital again.”
Now working part time with a local private psychotherapy practice, and doing executive coaching, Evnen was able to fit in more volunteer opportunities. She became a SCV a little over a year ago serving at Menorah Medical Center.
“Understanding how to approach a patient, their families, the hospital, and appropriately offer respect or connection from the community is vitally important. More importantly is the opportunity to connect patients with their Rabbis, if they wish.”
Jewish Community Chaplain Rabbi Rudnick oversees the SCV program at JFS and provides all volunteers with advice and support throughout the year.
“As a new spiritual care volunteer, Judith has faithfully jumped into the waters of Menorah Medical Center where our highest Jewish patient census is on any given day,” Rabbi Rudnick said. “Focused on connection, primarily by way of community and tradition, Judith uses her professional familiarity with healthcare to effectively offer support for those she visits.”
Evnen also volunteers with the National Council of Jewish Women and sings with the Kansas City Symphony Chorus. She enjoys spending time with her family, including her adult children Sam and Emma Benson, and baking.
“I spend WAY too much time baking things,” she said with a laugh. “At any given moment you will find at least four pounds of butter in my fridge!”
Evnen encourages others to consider giving back as SCV.
“I’d encourage anyone who has a desire to volunteer and enjoys offering warmth, understanding, and a connection to being Jewish to consider SCV,” she said. “[If you have] skills in ‘reading the room,’ standing close by during difficult moments, offering a quick smile, materials from the community. and comfort, [then you] should apply! It is true: I get way more than I give every single time.”
If you or someone you know would like more information about volunteering at JFS as a Spiritual Care Volunteer or another volunteer opportunity, please visit www.jfskc.org/volunteer, email Volunteer@jfskc.org, or call 913-981-8858.
